Braun & Hogenberg's Civitates Orbis Terrarum or "Cities of the World" was published between 1572 and 1617. Within the six volumes, 531 towns and cities were depicted on 363 plates, providing the reader with the pleasures of travel without the attendant discomforts. Braun wrote in the preface to the third book, "What could be more pleasant than, in one's own home far from all danger, to gaze in these books at the universal form of the earth . . . adorned with the splendor of cities and fortresses and, by looking at pictures and reading the texts accompanying them, to acquire knowledge which could scarcely be had but by long and difficult journeys?" Braun and Hogenberg incorporated an astonishing wealth of information into each scene beyond the city layout and important buildings. The plates provide an impression of the economy and prominent occupations, and illustrate local costumes, manners and customs.

This bird's-eye plan depicts Dordrecht, the oldest city in Holland. It is shown here after the Saint Elisabeth flood drowned large parts of southern Holland, causing Dordrecht to become an island. Its strategic position made it an important market city. The plan is adorned with a strapwork title cartouche, two coats of arms, ships, and three costumed figures in the foreground. Latin text on verso.

References: Fussel, pp. 231 & 233; Van der Krogt (Vol. IV) #1114.

Condition: A

A crisp impression with minor toning at top and a bit of marginal soiling. Small remnants of hinge tape on verso.